Doctor Answers 4

Fat Grafting vs.Injectable Fillers

October 9th, 2012

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The big advantage of fat grafting is that it is much longer lasting. Where fillers like Restylane and Juvederm last about 6 months or so, fat can last a decade or more. Laser skin resurfacing serves a different purpose than fillers. It is best for the improvement of the fine lines rather than the deep lines and folds that fillers like Restylane, Juvederm and fat grafting treat.

Fatter is better?

September 20th, 2012

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In some respects, fatter is "better.". Fat has the benefits of being permanent and natural but also has some downsides. It has a tendency to resorb somewhat, creating the need for touch up procedure(s) in some cases. It isn't as smooth as the fillers so it is not the best choice in some areas as well so it depends on what you wish to have done.

Fat Injections vs. Wrinkle Fillers For The Face

September 20th, 2012

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The "fillers" are not as thick and viscous as is fat from an artistic/sculpting point of view. Fillers are therefore more useful and actually preferable for mild to moderate lines and folds around the mouth area and for subtle reshaping of the lips. Fat is a much better choice for "re-volumizing" areas of the face that look aged because of fat loss. Fat injections for eliminating hollowness under the eyes, restoring fullness of the cheeks, softening deeper folds around the mouth, and re-plumping the lips are great methods of facial rejuvenation. Laser skin resurfacing has no effect on any of these issues. Lasers help to create a better qualitative look and feel to the skin - softer, smoother and more even in texture - as fine lines and "weathering" are removed.

Fat Transfer Pictures

Youthful Appearance with Fillers

September 19th, 2012

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Fat transfer is an effective procedure for a youthful appearance. The combination of fat transfer and skin resurfacing with laser, dermabrasion, or TCA peel is even more effective. Juvederm and Restylane are made of hyaluronic acid which attracts water and fills in lines and depressions. Juvederm and Restylane are quick, off the shelf, and temporary. Fat transfer requires more time, a donor site on your own body, and 50-60% should be permanent. Fat transfer improves skin quality, lessens wrinkles, and restores volume. Fat contains stem cells in small quantity. Doctors need to be careful about promoting the virtues of stem cells in fat since more research needs to be done and the FDA regulates stem cells. You need a consultation, Informed consent, and budget analysis to decide which is best for you. If you never had filler, I would try the hyaluronic acid before fat since it is reversible, less expensive, and quick. Good luck!

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